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Friday, August 9, 2013

Fibromyalgia Pain Relief

Fibromyalgia is a syndrome affecting the muscles, ligaments and tendons that causes pain and exhaustion throughout the body. While only around 2 percent of the population suffers from fibromyalgia, it is still a serious concern. Women are generally at a higher risk of developing fibromyalgia, and risk only increases as people get older. In people suffering from fibromyalgia, pain is often triggered by applying pressure to what are called "tender points," and exists consistently both on the left and right of the body, as well as above and below the waist.

First Steps

As with any medical condition, the most important first step is to see your doctor. Your doctor will be able to help you with a proper diagnosis. In the case of fibromyalgia, be prepared to answer a number of questions regarding diet and activities. What are your symptoms, in detail? Do you take any medications? Is there a family history of fibromyalgia? Your doctor will also give you a physical examination to determine if the pain you're experiencing is, in fact, related to fibromyalgia.

The Physical Exam

During the physical examination, the doctor will apply pressure to your tender points. It is generally accepted that if pain is experienced at 11 of the 18 tender points in the body, it may be a sign of fibromyalgia. These tender points are found all over your body, especially clustered around the knees, elbows, hips, back and neck. Your doctor may also require blood tests.

Pain Relief

The treatment of fibromyalgia generally requires a combination of medications and therapy. A doctor may prescribe analgesics such as acetaminophen to help control the pain and difficulty around your joints. A doctor may also prescribe antidepressants such as Prozac, Cymbalta, and Savella to ease the pain of fibromyalgia.

The employment of physical therapy to help treat fibromyalgia is an important step. Sometimes, stretching or exercises designed to promote muscle balance may help reduce the pain of fibromyalgia. Contact your doctor or physical therapist to find out if therapy is right for you.

According to mayoclinic.com, the pain of fibromyalgia can be reduced using certain home remedies such as relaxation, sleep management, regular exercise and the employment of all-around healthy habits like proper diet and limiting the amount of caffeine you consume.

Your Doctor

While home remedies may provide temporary relief in some cases, it is important that you seek professional medical advice. Your doctor will be able to prescribe you medication and answer any outstanding questions you may have about fibromyalgia. Remember: Your doctor should be the first place you go if you suspect you might be suffering from pain caused by fibromyalgia. Don't rely on home remedies you find on the Internet.